about dennis
driven by service
Guided by a deep sense of duty, Dennis M. Allen is running for Sheriff of Person County to restore integrity and accountability to the sheriff’s office and improve safety in the community he grew up in. After decades of service in the Person County Sheriff’s Office, he has seen firsthand what strong leadership looks like—and how weak leadership can affect the entire county.
With the support of his family, community, and former colleagues, Dennis decided to run for Sheriff of Person County to ensure the department is represented with strong leadership, operates at its best, and keeps the community safe.
Dennis M. Allen was born and raised in Person County and brings nearly four decades of public service experience, grounded in integrity, accountability, and a deep commitment to the community.
Before retiring in 2024, he served 30 years with the Person County Sheriff’s Office. Over the course of his career, he worked in nearly every area of the department, including the jail, patrolling the community, inmate transportation, and courthouse security, gaining firsthand experience in every major function of the Sheriff’s Office. Throughout that time, he maintained a clean record and built a strong reputation grounded in integrity, honor, accountability, and transparency. He retired as a lieutenant, where he supervised and led a team of deputies.
A lifetime of experience
Dennis M. Allen was born and raised in Person County and brings nearly four decades of public service experience, grounded in integrity, accountability, and a deep commitment to the community.
Before retiring in 2024, he served 30 years with the Person County Sheriff’s Office. Over the course of his career, he worked in nearly every area of the department, including the jail, patrolling the community, inmate transportation, and courthouse security, gaining firsthand experience in every major function of the Sheriff’s Office. Throughout that time, he maintained a clean record and built a strong reputation grounded in integrity, honor, accountability, and transparency. He retired as a lieutenant, where he supervised and led a team of deputies.
Prior to his law enforcement career, Dennis served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserve as a Military Police officer, where he developed the discipline and dedication that have guided his life and career. Those who know and have worked with Dennis will tell you that his reputation for integrity, honor, and respect for every individual he encounters speaks for itself.
Dennis has been married for 27 years and, together with his wife, raised four children in Person County. His family continues to remind him every day why safe, fair, and thriving communities matter.
“I love this town and the people who live here. This isn’t just a job to me, it’s about protecting the community I call home. I want to ensure our sheriff’s office reflects strong leadership, proper training, and a culture built on transparency, accountability, and a commitment to good character. This isn’t about a title. It’s about doing the job the right way and making our county stronger because of it.”
—Dennis M. Allen
Prior to his law enforcement career, Dennis served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserve as a Military Police officer, where he developed the discipline and dedication that have guided his life and career. Those who know and have worked with Dennis will tell you that his reputation for integrity, honor, and respect for every individual he encounters speaks for itself.
Dennis has been married for 27 years and, together with his wife, raised four children in Person County. His family continues to remind him every day why safe, fair, and thriving communities matter.
dennis’ CAREER
Graduated from Person County High School
1987
US Army Reserves, Military Police & Combat Support
1991-1999
PCSO Deputy Sheriff - Detention Officer
1994-1996
PCSO Deputy Sheriff - Patrol
1996-2005
PCSO Chief Bailiff/Lieutenant
2005-2024
Retired from PCSO after 30 years
2024
Rejoined PCSO Deputy Sheriff Part-Time
2024-2025
hung up his uniform once again to run for sheriff
2025
Investing in our future
Dennis recognizes that learning never stops for those who wear a badge. He believes ongoing training is essential to ensure deputies are prepared for every challenge they may face.
Recently, Dennis completed the North Carolina State Highway Patrol’s Interdiction for the Protection of Children training and received certification for this additional expertise. Dennis believes that an investment in the continuing education is an investment in the long-term safety and strength of our community.
Dennis has always had a passion for old cars. Recently, he has been restoring a 1980 Foxbody Ford Mustang with his son. For Dennis, the values he practices of patience, dedication, and seeing a job through in the garage reflect how he approaches every responsibility he takes on.
no stranger to hard work
“lt. dennis allen is the very definition of a great leader. his heart for the community he serves and the people he works with is unmatched.”
—Jessica Lynch Evans, EMS Safety Officer for Moriah Vol. Fire & Rescue